The day is marked by cultural and training activities including free or reduced-price screenings, panel discussions, workshops with directors and filmmakers and showcases highlighting emerging talent.
Saudi Arabia has marked International Cinema Day, observed annually on December 28, celebrating the art of cinema and its cultural legacy, including efforts to preserve and digitally restore classic films, reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
The occasion is recognised through a range of cultural and educational activities, including free or discounted film screenings, panel discussions, workshops led by directors and filmmakers, and platforms showcasing emerging talent. These initiatives aim to deepen public engagement with cinema while supporting skills development across the sector.
The Saudi Film Commission continues to play a central role in building a competitive national film industry by regulating the sector, empowering creative talent, expanding infrastructure, attracting investment and promoting local productions. These efforts are designed to strengthen the Kingdom’s creative economy and enhance its cultural presence at both regional and global levels.
Saudi Arabia also hosts a growing calendar of local and international film festivals each year. Among them is the Red Sea International Film Festival. The festival presents films from more than 70 countries across categories including feature films, documentaries, and animation.
Additional industry events such as the Saudi Film Festival, the Saudi Film Confex, and the Film Criticism Forum further support the sector by spotlighting local talent, celebrating Saudi cultural identity, and encouraging international collaboration. Together, these initiatives align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals to position film and creative industries as key contributors to economic diversification and cultural exchange.
